A path winds past a new wetland in the Cottonwood Gallery. Photo courtesy of Eliska Broes/New Mexico BioPark Society.

August 26, 2013

The Botanic Garden's new Cottonwood Gallery exhibit opens Friday, August 30. A special opening event from 9:30 - 11a.m. will feature a ribbon cutting, guided tours and hands-on discovery stations.

Towering cottonwood trees partially shade paths along new wetlands and native plantings. The five-acre exhibit, which was once part of San Gabriel State Park, is an enhanced natural area where guests can experience bosque wildlife.

"We want to encourage people to experience the natural treasure at the heart of Albuquerque--the bosque is a wonderful place and an integral part of our ecosystem," said Catherine Hubbard, Botanic Garden Manager. "Cottonwood Gallery is a great place to become acquainted with this wild part of our city. For people already familiar with the bosque, there are opportunities to learn more and see native plants and animals."

During the last year, BioPark staff and volunteers removed trash, created trails, sculpted wetlands and planted native vegetation. The wetlands mimic historic oxbows and ponds that the Rio Grande would have created before dams and channels restricted its flow. Additional restoration work, including removal of non-native trees, will continue.

Follow the path from the Heritage Farm to the Cottonwood Gallery to see tree saplings, mature forest, roadrunners, great-horned owls, porcupines, toads and more. Beginning August 30, the Cottonwood Gallery will be open during regular business hours and included with admission. For more information, email [email protected] or dial 311 locally (505-768-2000).